Community Calendar for December 27

ADVERTISING

Details: Live acoustic music. Stop by, have lunch and enjoy the music.

Contact: Dennis Soares, 345-1800, dennis_soares@hotmail.com

PULUMI NI‘AU DEMONSTRATION

Where: Kilauea Visitor Center lanai, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

When: 10 a.m. today

Details: The pulumi ni‘au (coconut broom) is a tool widely used in the Pacific. The coconut tree has myriad uses and is considered a “tree of life” by many cultures. In Hawaii, the importance of the coconut can be seen in the legend of Niuolahiki, whose name means “coconut of long life.” Part of HVNP’s ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” workshops. Free, but park fees apply.

Contact: Park Information, 985-6011, havo_interpretation@nps.gov

HOLIDAY CHALLENGE

Where: Kilauea Military Camp, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

When: 5 p.m. through Sunday

Details: Everyone is invited to come and vote for their favorite decorated cottage. Lights stay on until 10 p.m. each night through Dec. 31. Ballot boxes are located at the front desk, Crater Rim Cafe, the Recreation Lodge and the General Store. Park fees apply.

Contact: Elene Rizzo-Kuhn, 967-8371, rizzokuhne@kmc-volcano.com

SIERRA CLUB CONSERVATION COMMITTEE

Where: Keaau Community Center, 16-192 Pili Mua St., Keaau

When: 5:30 p.m. today

Details: Chad Wiggins, Hawaii Island Nature Conservancy marine program director and a presenter at the West Hawaii Marine Ecosystem Symposium, will give a summary of research and conservation activity presented during the symposium.

Contact: Mary M. Porter, 982-9100, islandeyesvideo@yahoo.com

ALOHA FRIDAY ON THE PORCH — HULA AND OLI WITH KAMAOLIPUA GRACE

Where: Volcano Art Center Gallery, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

When: 11 a.m. Friday

Details: Grace shares her extensive knowledge to teach the basics of hula, the Hawaiian language and chant. Free, but park fees apply.

Contact: Jenette, 967-8222, info@volcanoartcenter.org

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Where: Aging and Disability Resource Center, 1055 Kinoole Ave., Hilo

When: 2 p.m. Friday

Details: Regular December meeting. Jesse from the Hawaii County Community Paramedicine Program will speak about an available in-home health and safety assessment available. Information will be given about preventing falls and other health issues. Bring holiday goodies to share.

Details: Experience what has become a tradition for many island residents and visitors alike in this quaint, little plantation village, making traditional rice cakes the “old-fashioned” way. Everyone takes their turn at pounding for good luck. Fire building starts at 6:30 a.m. to steam the rice. Hearty island-style lunch for $5. New Year’s crafts and calligraphy, New Year’s kadomatsu (bamboo arrangement), fortune telling, I Ching readings, prayers and blessings, massage, Okinawan taiko drumming and entertainment.

Contact: Akiko Masuda, 963-6422, msakiko@hawaii.rr.com

STEWARDSHIP AT THE SUMMIT

Where: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

When: 8:45 a.m. Saturday

Details: Volunteers are needed to help remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in the park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools are provided. No advance registration required; no cost to participate, but park entrance fees apply. Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kilauea Visitor Center.

Contact: Park information, 985-6011, havo_interpretation@nps.gov

BIRTH OF KAHUKU

Where: Kahuku Unit, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

When: 9:30 a.m. Saturday

Details: Traverse the vast 1868 lava flow, see different volcano features and formations and identify many parts of the Southwest Rift Zone of Mauna Loa. Learn about the Hawaiian hot spot and the creation of Kahuku. Easy-to-moderate hike. Enter Kahuku on the mauka (inland) side of Highway 11 near mile marker 70.5; meet near the parking area. Sturdy footwear, water, rain gear, sun protection and snack are recommended for all hikes. Free.

Contact: Park information, 985-6011, havo_interpretation@nps.gov

FAMILY FUNDAY SUNDAY

Where: Basically Books, 1672 Kamehameha Ave., Hilo

When: 11 a.m. Sundays through December (call for Christmas and New Year’s eves availability)

Details: Interested individuals should meet sensei Joseph Aguinaldo at the recreation center the first day of classes.

Contact: Sidney Kanno, 987-7456, sidneyk@hawaii.rr.com

ALOHA FRIDAY ON THE PORCH — LEI MAKING WITH RANDY LEE

Where: Volcano Art Center Gallery, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

When: 11 a.m. Jan. 12

Details: Lee uses a variety of natural materials to fashion lei from the freshest fern, leaves and flowers he gathers from the rain forests of Panaewa. Free, but park fees apply.

Contact: Jenette, 967-8222, jenette@volcanoartcenter.org

FILM PRODUCTION WORKSHOP: ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A SET PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

Where: Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, 71 Banyan Drive, Hilo

When: 8:30 a.m. Jan. 13

Details: Program covers all aspects of the PA job and function, including finding a job, set etiquette and protocols, gear and equipment, communications and problem solving, survival tips and what to expect on that first day of work. Workshop for those looking for training in entry-level jobs in the motion picture field or those wanting to brush up on their skills. Cost is $15 for students, $20 for nonstudents. Light refreshments and lunch included. Space limited.

Details: Ah Chong shares his expert lei-making skills. As a member of Halau Na Kamalei, his unique experience marries the science of agriculture with Hawaiian lei and hula traditions. Free, but park fees apply.

Contact: Jenette, 967-8222, jenette@volcanoartcenter.org

KAMUELA PHILHARMONIC PRESENTS “RUSTIC INSPIRATIONS”

Where: Kahilu Theatre, 67-1186 Lindsey Road, Waimea

When: 4 p.m. Jan. 28

Details: With the vast landscape of Parker Ranch as inspiration, the orchestra features the inspiring winners of Kamuela Philharmonic’s youth concerto competition.

Details: Fun, free educational event for all ages and a great opportunity to learn more about the unique environment of the island. This year will feature guided tours of the Waikoloa Dry Forest Preserve, onsite workshops, educational talks, music, food, vendors and a silent auction.

Contact: Jen Lawson, 494-2208, jen@waikoloadryforest.org

VALENTINE’S DAY CRIME STOPPERS BENEFIT

Where: Nani Mau Gardens, 421 Makalika St., Hilo

When: 5:30 p.m. Feb. 14

Details: Treat your sweetheart to a special Valentine’s Day dinner and help raise funds for this all-volunteer, nonprofit organization, which helps police fight crime by giving cash rewards to anonymous tipsters. Features legendary funnyman Frank DeLima, with music by Hilo’s own Larry Dupio, a gourmet dinner and a fun silent auction. Tickets are $100, available at Basically Books, from Crime Stoppers board members or by calling the number below.

Details: Remarkable violinist Ignace “Iggy” Jang joins the orchestra to close the season.

Contact: Kamuela Philharmonic, 298-6274, contact@kamuelaphil.org

ONGOING

(Be sure to check the holiday availability of ongoing items)

Saturdays

HILO VETERANS CENTER

Where: 70 Lanihuli St., Suite No. 2, Hilo

When: 8 a.m. Saturdays

Details: Hilo Veterans Center has new office hours. A benefits briefing is hosted the first Thursday of each month from 9 a.m.-noon, with several other opportunities for veterans and their family members. Contact the center for more information. Also available are: shore fishing group, kanakapila group, art therapy group, stand-up paddling group, various golf activities, yoga, tai chi and a book club.

Contact: Maricar Souza, 969-3833

INSTANT DRAWING

Where: Ben Franklin, 333 Kilauea Ave., Hilo

When: Noon on Saturdays

Details: Learn to draw everything from plants to animals to people. For ages 10 and older. Cost is $17.50 for each two-hour class. Supply list given during the first class. You also can bring your own pencils, paper and drawing board.

Details: Nine-week workshop. Cost for either session is $200; $185 for VAC members plus a $15 materials fee for 6 pounds of clay, including glazes and firing. Additional clay will be available for purchase. Get an introduction to working with and firing midrange stoneware. Open studio time will be available to registered students from 2-5 p.m. Wednesdays; cost is $10 per day, with tickets available at the administration office front desk during business hours. Must be registered for a ceramics class to participate. Call or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org to register.

Contact: Alyssa Johnasen, 967-8222, workshops@volcanoartcenter.org

HILO BRIDGE CLUB

Where: Eagles Club, 16-111 Opukahaia St., Keaau

When: 12:30 p.m. Sundays; 11 a.m. Wednesdays

Details: Looking for social bridge players to join us in duplicate bridge. Cost is $5.

Contact: Harry Messenheimer, 965-1391

WRITERS WORKSHOP

Where: UH-Hilo, 200 W. Kawili St., Hilo

When: 1 p.m. Sundays

Details: Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, one of your most useful resources is a workshop. With this workshop, you’ll not only have useful feedback from other writers, you’ll also benefit from weekly discussions about the most important concepts of writing with the group’s facilitator. Writers can explore any creative medium they want in a friendly, supportive environment. Cost for the full 10 weeks is $90, payable at the start of the session.

Contact: Adam Sydney, 818-216-8664, asydney@gmail.com

FREE DOG TRAINING AND SOCIAL EVENT

Where: Near the tea house, Lili‘uokalani Gardens, Banyan Drive, Hilo

When: 2 p.m. Sundays

Details: Come join the fun and share the love. Goals are problem solving via free training instruction and tools, and offering an advanced socialization experience. Bring a bowl for water.

Details: Fun, upbeat and sure to be a good workout. All are welcome. Free and open to the public. Visit HMONO.org/events for all class dates and times.

Contact: Pua, 969-9220, contact@hmono.org

AERIAL CLASSES

Where: Pacific Gymnastics 215B Railroad Ave., Hilo

When: 5:30 p.m. Mondays, 5 p.m. Wednesdays

Details: This open-level class will work on strength, flexibility and technique. Students will learn skills on different apparatuses including silks, hammock, straps and hoop. Preregistration required; visit www.bellaotoole.com.

Details: Learn aikido to exercise your mind, body and spirit; stretch, strengthen and protect yourself without harming others. Monthly fee is $60 for individuals, $90 for families. To register or for more information, visit AikidoOfHilo.org or stop by the dojo.

Contact: Barbara Klein, 935-2454, AikidoOfHilo@gmail.com

MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ JAM

Where: Kukuau Studio, 43 Kukuau St., Hilo

When: 6 p.m. Mondays

Details: An all-inclusive jam session with a rotating house band. Created to strengthen the Big Island jazz community through networking and jamming. Bring your favorite charts and the instrument of your choice or enjoy the vibrations of people improvising together in the jazz tradition. Free; all ages welcome.

Details: Charleston is an integral part of swing and can add variety and interest to your dance. New dancers and those who want to expand their swing repertoires are welcome. No partner necessary. Six-week session for $35; discounts for multiple classes or if you bring a new student; $10 drop-ins.

Contact: Andrea Gill, 959-8216, hoaloha@hawaiiantel.net

BEGINNING SWING DANCE

Where: Aloha Wellness Center, 239 Haili St., Hilo

When: 8 p.m. Mondays

Details: Experience Lindy hop, the original form of swing dance and an outrageously popular American dance from the Big Band era. Beginners welcome. Get personalized instruction in small classes, benefitting from guidance from more experienced Lindy-hoppers. Six weeks; cost is $35 or only $20 if you bring a new student. Drop-ins $10. No experience or partner necessary.

Contact: Andrea Gill, 959-8216, hilohepcats@gmail.com

Tuesdays

HILO SUNRISE CHAPTER — BNI NETWORKING MEETING

Where: Hilo Woman’s Club, 7 Lele St., Hilo

When: 7 a.m. Tuesdays

Details: For local business professionals who value word-of-mouth marketing and are seeking to network, refer business to each other and build a better business community.

Contact: Sharla Sare, 430-1787

BASIC STRETCH AND STRENGTHENING EXERCISE CLASS

Where: Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi, Hilo Office, 1438 Kilauea Ave.

When: 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays

Details: Basic stretches and muscular endurance exercises that will help improve your flexibility and strength. Designed for all ages; geared toward those needing to maintain or increase mobility, and those wanting a gentle stretch. Free.

Contact: Kalani Lawson, 969-9220, kalani@hmono.org

LIBRARY BENEFIT BOOKSTORE

Where: Hilo Public Library, 300 Waianuenue Ave., Hilo

When: 11 a.m. Tuesdays

Details: All proceeds to benefit the Hilo Public Library. Hardbacks for $1, paperbacks for 50 cents.

Contact: Dale R. Huber, 966-4386, dalerhuber@gmail.com

WRITERS WORKSHOP

Where: Hawaiian Shores Community Center, 15-859 Kahakai Blvd., Pahoa

When: 12:30 p.m. (seasoned writers) and 4 p.m. (entry level) Tuesdays

Details: We write, read and get constructive feedback to become a more effective writer. We have a good core ongoing group for seasoned writers and an entry group for those who need to brush up. Sessions are 10 weeks. Cost is $90.

Details: Kids learn stretching, strengthening, self-discipline and cooperation as well as protective skills in a positive setting. Monthly rate $60 for individuals; $45 for college students; $90 for families.

Contact: Barbara Klein, 935-2454, AikidoOfHilo@gmail.com

THERAPEUTIC BASIC FLOW (YOGA) CLASSES

Where: Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi, Hilo Office, 1438 Kilauea Ave.

When: 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays

Details: Classes are free. Register today.

Contact: Kalani Lawson, 969-9220, kalani@hmono.org

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS 12-STEP MEETINGS

Where: Church of the Holy Apostles, 1407 Kapiolani St., Hilo

When: 5 p.m. Tuesdays

Details: It is not a diet club, but a fellowship of people recovering from compulsive overeating. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively. No dues, fees or weigh-ins.

Contact: OA contact, 345-2753

YOGA

Where: Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi, 326 Desha Ave., Keaukaha

When: 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays

Details: Beginners and experienced welcome. Designed for all ages. Get active, increase flexibility and improve your overall health. Free and open to the public. Visit HMONO.org/events for all class dates and times.

Details: Experimental and traditional techniques to bring the fun of watercolor to your eyes and hands. No previous experience necessary. Supply list given during the first class. For ages 11 and older. Cost is $17.50 per two-hour class.

Contact: Joy, 935-0005, tinacintron.art@gmail.com

LIFE DRAWING

Where: Kukuau Studio, 43 Kukuau St., Hilo

When: 6 p.m. Tuesdays

Details: The Hilo Artists Hui has moved to a new location for this weekly event. Working with a live model is a great way to sharpen your drawing skills. Cost is $10 per session. Bring your own drawing supplies, including a drawing board or easel. If younger than 18 years old, you must have parental permission to attend.

Contact: Robert Weiss, 557-0097, scrimdog@gmail.com

BLUES DANCE FUNDAMENTALS

Where: Aloha Wellness Center, 239 Haili St., Hilo

When: 7 p.m. Tuesdays

Details: Explore the variety of styles and expressions of this unique American partner dance. Learn basics such as shifting your partner’s weight, body isolations and ways to move across the floor. No partner or experience required; beginners welcome. Six weeks; cost is $35 or only $20 if you bring a new student. Drop-ins $10.

Details: This nonprofit group supporting writers on the Big Island will meet weekly through June and July. Drop in with your ideas or pieces on which you are currently working. Group topics vary according to pieces being discussed.

Details: Open to beginners as well as experienced dancers. Cost is $35 for the eight weeks, plus $20 chapter membership. First-year membership fee waived for those who are cardholding members of the Hawaii Medical Service Association. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m.

Details: BNI was founded in 1985 by Dr. Ivan Misner “for the primary purpose of building powerful referral networks.” If you want to grow your business by giving and getting referrals, you’re encouraged to call and/or attend.

Details: It is not a diet club, but a fellowship of people recovering from compulsive overeating. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively. No dues, fees or weigh-ins.

Details: This drop-in style class will allow island residents and visitors the opportunity to try their hand at creating with clay on the potter’s wheel, without having to commit to an eight- or 10-week series. Emphasis will be placed on getting a feel for working on the potter’s wheel and experiencing the thrill of hand-forming a pot in motion. Students with all levels of clay experience welcome. Cost is $35 or $30 for VAC members.

Contact: Alyssa Johnasen, 967-8222, workshops@volcanoartcenter.org

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS

Where: Center for Spiritual Living, Hawaiian Paradise Park

When: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays

Details: A new group for people who have a desire to stop gambling. Every Thursday.

Contact: Lucinda, 509-930-6329, 1lukiluci@gmail.com

RANTOKAN KENDO CLUB

Where: Waiakea Recreation Center, 1634 Kamehameha Ave., Hilo

When: 8 p.m. Thursdays

Details: Learn this ancient traditional martial art of Japan and modern-day sport, founded on virtues of samurai training. Cost is $10 per month.

Contact: rantokan.kendo@gmail.com

Fridays

UNDERSTANDING HAWAIIAN MUSIC

Where: TBA to participants

When: 12:30 p.m. Fridays

Details: For those interested in understanding the words and appreciating the themes of popular Hawaiian songs. A native speaker will teach. No previous knowledge of Hawaiian language necessary. Call if you are interested and for details.

Contact: Laura L. Williams-May, 805-545-0642, laurainslo@gmail.com

WEST AFRICAN DANCE

Where: YWCA, 145 Ululani St., Hilo

When: 6:45 p.m. Fridays

Details: Have fun and sweat while learning West African dance. Taught by Michal Anna Carrillo of Lavaroots Dance Company in Hawi. All levels and drop-ins welcome. Live drumming. Cost is $15.

Contact: Michal Anna Carrillo, 987-4243, lavaroots@gmail.com

SQUARE DANCING FOR HEALTH AND FITNESS

Where: Clem Akina Park, 159 Wainaku St., Hilo

When: 7 p.m. Fridays

Details: Meet new people for fun, fellowship and friendship put to music. Led by Bill Yoeman, ACA certified square dance caller and instructor.

Contact: Bill Yoeman, 968-6091

OTHER ONGOING EVENTS

PAHOA SENIOR CLASSES

Where: Pahoa Senior Center, 15-3016 Kauhale St., Pahoa

When: Various times and days

Details: Seniors 55 and older can participate in classes including beginning tai chi with instructor Verne Presnall, ceramics, line dancing, hula and ukulele. Classes run through Dec. 8. Call for additional information.

Contact: Margaret Yafuso, 966-5801, myafuso@hawaiicounty.gov

KILNS FOR GLASS AND POTTERY

Where: Ainaloa

When: TBD

Details: Ongoing instruction on building high-fire propane kilns. Date and times are flexible.

Contact: Harr C. Fernald, 747-7289, fernaldh@gmail.com

INDIVIDUAL VOICE INSTRUCTION WITH AMY HORST

Where: Hilo

When: By appointment

Details: Learn vocal power and confidence. Weekly lessons arranged according to student and teacher schedules. Cost is $30 per lesson. Call or email for more information or to register.

Contact: Amy Horst, 640-2898, amysoprano@gmail.com

FREE HELPING HAND FOR SENIORS

Where: 1911 Kalanianaole Ave., No. 608, Hilo

When: 9 a.m.

Details: For seniors who need to be driven to a doctor’s appointment, the store, the park for a walk or just to get out of the house. Call or text.

Contact: Tom, 990-5045

AL-ANON EAST HAWAII

Where: Various locations

When: Various times

ADVERTISING

Details: Are you troubled by someone’s drinking? Call for free support, meeting places and times. For more information, visit www.afghawaii.org.